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Period poverty refers to the lack of access to menstrual hygiene products, sanitation facilities, education, or a combination of all these. An estimated 500 million people around the world suffer from period poverty.
Period poverty has far-reaching economic and social repercussions. It causes mental, physical, and emotional challenges. Hence, the need for hygiene products for the homeless and those living in poor, impoverished communities is huge.
Women and girls who cannot afford to buy sanitary products while menstruating cannot work or go to school and are even unable to properly carry out their daily activities. It not only affects their education and economic opportunities adversely, but also compounds their existing vulnerabilities, and they feel ashamed for menstruating.
Women who experience a lack of proper menstrual hygiene are more likely to suffer from anxiety or depression, struggle to pay their bills, and have an unfulfilling love life. The stigma surrounding periods prevents women from talking about it and exacerbates the problem further.
At Promise Hill Project, we understand how important it is for women to have access to period products to live a respectable and healthy life.
Period poverty does not only affect women and girls in developing countries; it also affects women in developed countries. An estimated 16.9 million people who menstruate live in poverty in the United States.
Through our Basic Needs Program, we are striving to bring about a positive change in the lives of women experiencing period poverty.
Please do your bit and lend us a helping hand by donating feminine hygiene products. Help alleviate poor personal hygiene, boost self-esteem, alleviate anxiety and depression.
The Consequences of Period Poverty
Adverse Effects on Mental Well-Being
Lack of access to menstrual products negatively affects one’s mental well-being, leading to distress and being uncomfortable. When experienced for a long period, it can trigger depression and anxiety.
Health and Hygiene Issues
Not maintaining menstrual hygiene puts individuals at a higher risk of urinary and genital infections like bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections.
Affects Work
It prevents women from going to work, which in turn can have significant economic implications in the long run.
Hampers Education
Women experiencing period poverty miss school/college during menstruation due to fear of leakage and odor. Missing out on education can have long-term consequences and can affect a person’s self-esteem as well as future prospects.
Period poverty is a widespread problem and there is a need for more research on the topic. You can contribute to ending period poverty through national advocacy, improved sanitation and hygiene access, and further research.
Take a step towards eradicating period poverty. Support Promise Hill Project’s Basic Needs Program by donating women’s sanitary products today.
Help us Break the Cycle of Poverty.
